Infertility is a complicated problem for many couples. But one of the biggest obstacles is male, and up to half of all cases of infertility involve men’s problems making or transporting healthy sperm. Hormonal imbalances, genetic disorders and lifestyle factors all play a role in male fertility, so it’s important to have any issues thoroughly evaluated. The best way to do this is with a complete medical evaluation including semen analysis, hormone testing and sometimes more specialized assessments.
The first step in diagnosing male infertility is a physical examination. Your doctor will look at the size and shape of your testicles, scrotum and penis and examine any lumps or discharge. If you have a family history of testicular or prostate cancer or other chronic health problems, your doctor may check those as well.
A semen analysis is the next step. Your doctor will ask you to collect some of your semen into a clean container before sex or after masturbation and have it tested in a lab. The test will determine if you’re producing enough healthy sperm, and it will check for signs of abnormal sperm production or blockages that are keeping sperm from reaching the egg. The test will also include blood tests to check your testosterone and other male hormones, and sometimes urine testing to see if you’re getting enough nitric oxide which is required for healthy sperm movement.
Genetic problems such as Klinefelter’s syndrome — in which you have two X chromosomes and no Y chromosome, or cystic fibrosis — can cause abnormal development of the male reproductive organs. This can result in low sperm production, irregular sperm formation or blocked ejaculatory ducts that prevent sperm from leaving the urethra. The problem can be corrected with medication or surgery.
Other factors that can interfere with male fertility are certain medications and dietary supplements. Some supplements can cause a drop in testosterone and an increase in DHT levels, which may interfere with sperm production or their ability to travel. Your doctor can recommend a safer alternative, and will advise you about which herbs or other dietary supplements are safe for you and your partner to take.
If you’re struggling with infertility, don’t give up. Help is available and you can get the help you need by making an appointment with your doctor right away. If you have a health care plan, it should cover the cost of your evaluation and treatment. And if you’re in Manitoba, be sure to apply for the Fertility Treatment Tax Credit which can reduce or refund some of your costs. It’s available on a calendar year basis, and you can claim it whether you’re the man or the woman in the relationship. So don’t delay, and learn more about Solutions for Male Infertility in Winnipeg today.